New London — The city is soliciting volunteers for a veterans' advisory committee it hopes to create by June.

Mayor Michael Passero said he's been working to establish the committee since he was elected. He appointed Joe Hancock, an active duty member of the Connecticut National Guard, as the city's veterans' liaison several months ago.

State law allows cities and towns, either separately or together, to establish a local veterans' advisory committee as the local coordinating agency for matters involving veterans and their dependents. And in 2013, the Connecticut General Assembly passed legislation requiring cities and towns to designate a veterans' service contact.

Passero envisions the committee being the starting point for veterans and their dependents when they have a problem or are in need of information. He said the committee would actively reach out to the veteran community, and could connect veterans with programs and services.

City residents interested in serving on the committee must be active duty or retired military, and must have received an honorbale discharge. Applications can be obtained from the city clerk's office or on the city's website under the boards and agencies tab. Applications are due no later than June 1.